The Bar Council of Uttar Pradesh has raised serious concern over alleged incidents of police misconduct and harassment against advocates in Banaras, formally demanding a high-level magisterial inquiry. In a strongly worded letter dated September 18, 2025, addressed to the Chief Minister of Uttar Pradesh, Paresh Mishra, Council Member and former Chairman Paresh Mishra described the incidents as “extremely serious, condemnable, and contrary to the dignity of the justice system.”
The Bar Council stressed that repeated acts of misbehaviour by police officers were not isolated lapses but amounted to a direct attack on the freedom, dignity, and respect of advocates, who play a vital role in protecting citizens’ rights and upholding the rule of law.
The letter highlighted a troubling pattern, citing earlier episodes in Prayagraj and Hapur where lawyers were allegedly subjected to assault and harassment by police officials. According to the Council, these recurring events have created a deep sense of insecurity and anger within the legal fraternity across the state.
In its appeal to the government, the Bar Council has placed five urgent demands:
1. A high-level magisterial inquiry into the Banaras incident.
2. Strict punitive action against the responsible police officers and personnel.
3. Concrete safeguards to uphold the dignity, safety, and respect of advocates.
4. Immediate enactment of the Advocate Protection Act in Uttar Pradesh to ensure the legal security of lawyers.
5. Issuance of strict guidelines to prevent such incidents in the future.
The letter concludes with a clear warning: if the government fails to act decisively, the entire advocate community will be compelled to launch a statewide agitation. While urging the Chief Minister to respond with sensitivity, the Bar Council made it evident that the legal fraternity is determined to fight collectively to secure its rights and ensure justice.
